Planning a trip to Singapore and wondering when to go? The good news is that Singapore is a year-round destination. What I mean by that is that this small island nation sits right on the equator, which means the weather is hot and humid all year long with plenty of rain showers in between. But depending on what you want to do (shopping, sightseeing, festivals, or simply just enjoying the amazing food scene) some months can feel more convenient than others.

Weather in Singapore Year-Round

Singapore’s climate does not change much between seasons. Visitors should expect daytime temperatures to range between 25°C and 31°C (77°F to 88°F) almost every day, with high humidity. Rain is very common here but it usually comes in short bursts. This is really good since it is very rare for it to rain the entire day and ruin your ability to enjoy your visit.

December to March

This is the northeast monsoon season, when Singapore sees heavier rainfalls. The showers can be intense, but they often leave the city looking especially lush and green. It is a beautiful time to explore if you do not mind carrying an umbrella.

April to August

These months are typically hot and humid. Also I notice they tend to be slightly drier. It is one of the best times for outdoor activities, from strolling through Gardens by the Bay to exploring Sentosa or taking a river cruise.

September to November

This is the inter-monsoon period, which is usually marked by frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The rain usually comes and goes quickly, so with a bit of planning your day remains easy to manage.

Best Time for Shopping Lovers

If shopping is your thing, then you absolutely have to plan your trip between June and August. That’s when the Great Singapore Sale takes over the city. I’m not just talking about a few small discounts because this is when stores all across the likes of Orchard Road and Marina Bay Sands and even neighborhood malls go all out with massive markdowns. Electronics stores and even luxury brands jump in, so you can score everything from a new outfit to a new laptop at a fraction of the usual price.

The atmosphere during this time is amazing. Orchard Road (one of my favorite places in the city) especially becomes so lively. You pass here around this time and you will see it is packed with shoppers carrying multiple bags and street performances doing their thing. And then malls after malls keep tempting you with “up to 70% off” signs. It honestly feels like one giant shopping carnival. I always tell people, if you love shopping, come during these months because you’ll be spoiled for choice. And trust me, you’ll need an extra suitcase for all the bargains you’ll find.

Best Time for Festivals and Events

Christmas on Orchard Road Singapore with festive lights and decorations

One of the best things about Singapore is that there’s always something happening despite it being a tiny island. Because we’re such a multicultural city, festivals and events take place throughout the year. If you visit in December, for example, you’ll witness Orchard Road dressed in dazzling Christmas lights for Christmas on A Great Street (pictured above). The entire stretch transforms into a festive wonderland with sparkling decorations and pop-up activities – a favorite for both locals and visitors.

Chinese New Year (January or February)

This is honestly magical on all levels. Chinatown gets transformed with lanterns and lion dances during this time. Then there is the bustling night markets which I can’t seem to get enough of. If you’ve never experienced Chinese New Year in Singapore, you’re really missing out.

Hari Raya Puasa and Deepavali

Both of these celebrations bring so much color to the city. During Hari Raya, Geylang Serai is beautifully decorated with lights and food bazaars pop up everywhere. For Deepavali, Little India becomes a wonderland of light displays. Everywhere you walk in Little India, you are sure to meet with traditional sweets and cultural performances.

Singapore National Day (August 9)

Every Singaporean feels proud on this day. Expect the likes of parades, fighter jet fly-pasts and of course spectacular fireworks over Marina Bay. Even if you’re just visiting, the sense of national pride is infectious.

Singapore Grand Prix (September)

The world’s first Formula 1 night race turns the city into one giant party. Concerts and the roar of race cars speeding through Marina Bay make this one of Singapore’s most exciting weeks of the year. Whether you’re a racing fan or not, the atmosphere is amazing. For example, 2025’s entertainment lineup was beyond amazing, with blockbuster acts like Elton John, Foo Fighters and The Smashing Pumpkins performing alongside the race festivities.

Best Time for Cheaper Travel

Singapore’s Haji Lane with colorful cafes and street art

If you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll be happy to know that Singapore does have a cheaper season. The most affordable time to visit is usually between July and October, as long as you avoid the Formula 1 Grand Prix period in September when prices skyrocket. During these off-peak months, hotels often run promotions and flights are easier on the wallet. And certainly attractions are less crowded compared to the holiday season.

I personally love this period because you get the same Singapore experience without having to deal with long queues or fully booked restaurants. Walking through popular spots like Marina Bay Sands or Sentosa feels a lot more relaxed, and you can take your time exploring without being swept away by the usual tourist rush. Plus, the savings you make on accommodation and flights can easily go towards enjoying more of Singapore’s amazing food or picking up an extra shopping bag along Orchard Road.

So if you’re looking for the sweet spot between affordability and comfort, July to October is your best bet.

Quick Tips Before You Visit Singapore

Singapore is super easy to get around, but as someone who grew up here, I can tell you a few little habits we locals have that make life smoother:

  • Always carry an umbrella. We don’t leave home without one, because the rain here comes suddenly and heavily. You’ll see Singaporeans pulling out their umbrellas the moment the first drop falls. It’s just part of daily life.
  • Dress light, but respect culture. Most of us live in shorts, t-shirts, and sandals because of the heat. But if we’re heading to a religious site, we always bring a scarf or wear something modest. Visitors sometimes forget this, but for us it’s second nature.
  • Stay hydrated, lah. The humidity is no joke. Locals carry refillable bottles everywhere. And the good news is tap water is perfectly safe to drink. You’ll often see us topping up at public fountains or just refilling at home before heading out.
  • Book early for big events. When F1 or National Day comes around, everything gets crowded and prices go up. Even locals book restaurants and hotels in advance if we want to be part of the action, so if you’re visiting during these times, don’t wait until the last minute.
  • Extra local tip: Get an EZ-Link card or use your contactless bank card for the MRT and buses. It’s what we locals use, and it makes public transport cheap and super convenient.
Sabrina Chitty

Sabrina Chitty is a Singaporean writer and photographer passionate about capturing life in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Through her stories and photos, she shares the culture, traditions, and hidden gems that make the region unique and inspiring.

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